affirmation

[af-er-mey-shuh n] /ˌæf ərˈmeɪ ʃən/
noun
1.
the act or an instance of affirming; state of being affirmed.
2.
the assertion that something exists or is true.
3.
something that is affirmed; a statement or proposition that is declared to be true.
4.
confirmation or ratification of the truth or validity of a prior judgment, decision, etc.
5.
Law. a solemn declaration accepted instead of a statement under oath.
Origin
1535-45; < Latin affirmātiōn- (stem of affirmātiō), equivalent to affirmāt(us) (past participle of affirmāre to affirm) + -iōn- -ion
Related forms
nonaffirmation, noun
overaffirmation, noun
preaffirmation, noun
reaffirmation, noun
self-affirmation, noun
Examples from the web for affirmation
  • He is a natural showman, and he thrives on affirmation.
  • This is a fascinating affirmation of the existence of the human soul and a difficult read, but well worth the effort.
  • Instead it's a calm, reflective affirmation of family love.
  • Increasingly, these kids turn to brand names for security and affirmation.
  • The book is equally rewarding as a wilderness journey and as one man's affirmation of his faith.
  • The fact is they are not looking for answers, they are looking for affirmation.
  • The Canadians have the gold medal and a re-affirmation of their hockey pride.
  • The article introduces a bias by this affirmation.
  • It sounds like you are looking for affirmation that this is a good move for you.
  • Man lives more by affirmation than by bread.
British Dictionary definitions for affirmation

affirmation

/ˌæfəˈmeɪʃən/
noun
1.
the act of affirming or the state of being affirmed
2.
a statement of the existence or truth of something; assertion
3.
(law) a solemn declaration permitted on grounds of conscientious objection to taking an oath
Word Origin and History for affirmation
n.

early 15c., "assertion that something is true," from Old French afermacion (14c.), from Latin affirmationem (nominative affirmatio) "an affirmation, solid assurance," noun of action from past participle stem of affirmare (see affirm). In law, as the Quaker alternative to oath-taking, it is attested from 1690s.

Encyclopedia Article for affirmation

in law, a promise by a witness concerning testimony allowed in place of an oath to those who cannot, because of conscience, swear an oath. For example, members of the Society of Friends (Quakers), Jehovah's Witnesses, and other persons who have objections against taking an oath are allowed to make affirmation in any manner they may declare to be binding upon their consciences in confirmation of the truth of their testimony.

Learn more about affirmation with a free trial on Britannica.com